Are you planning to go fishing in New York state waters? If so, you will need a fishing license. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is responsible for issuing fishing licenses in New York. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about DEC fishing licenses.
What is a DEC Fishing License?
A DEC fishing license is a permit that allows you to fish legally in New York state waters. The DEC issues various types of fishing licenses depending on the type of fishing you plan to do and how long you want the license to be valid.
Who Needs a DEC Fishing License?
Anyone who wants to go fishing in New York state waters needs a DEC fishing license. This includes residents and non-residents of New York, as well as individuals of all ages. However, there are certain exemptions. For example, if you are fishing on one of the free fishing days in New York, you do not need a fishing license.
Types of DEC Fishing Licenses
The DEC issues various types of fishing licenses depending on the type of fishing you plan to do and how long you want the license to be valid. Here are the main types of DEC fishing licenses:
1. Annual Fishing License
An annual fishing license is valid for one year from the date of purchase. This license allows you to fish in the freshwaters of New York State, including streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds. The cost of an annual fishing license for residents is $25, while non-residents pay $50.
2. Seven-Day Fishing License
A seven-day fishing license is valid for seven consecutive days from the date of purchase. This license allows you to fish in the freshwaters of New York State, including streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds. The cost of a seven-day fishing license for residents is $12, while non-residents pay $28.
3. One-Day Fishing License
A one-day fishing license is valid for one day from the date of purchase. This license allows you to fish in the freshwaters of New York State, including streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds. The cost of a one-day fishing license for residents is $5, while non-residents pay $10.
4. Lifetime Fishing License
A lifetime fishing license is valid for the lifetime of the license holder. This license allows you to fish in the freshwaters of New York State, including streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds. The cost of a lifetime fishing license for residents varies depending on the age of the license holder, while non-residents pay $500.
How to Get a DEC Fishing License
You can get a DEC fishing license in several ways. Here are the main ways to get a DEC fishing license:
1. Online
You can purchase a DEC fishing license online through the DEC’s Automated Licensing System. To purchase a fishing license online, you will need a valid credit card and a printer to print out your license.
2. By Phone
You can purchase a DEC fishing license by phone by calling the DEC Call Center at 1-866-933-2257. You will need a valid credit card to purchase a fishing license by phone.
3. In Person
You can purchase a DEC fishing license in person at any DEC license-issuing agent, such as a local sporting goods store or town clerk’s office.
Fishing Regulations
In addition to having a fishing license, you must also follow the fishing regulations set by the DEC. These regulations are in place to protect fish populations and ensure sustainable fishing for future generations. Here are some of the fishing regulations you should be aware of:
1. Catch and Release
Some fish species are catch and release only. This means that you cannot keep these fish, but you must release them back into the water unharmed. Examples of catch and release fish species in New York include trout and salmon.
2. Size Limits
There are size limits for some fish species in New York. This means that you cannot keep fish that are below or above a certain size. For example, the size limit for black bass in New York is 12 inches.
3. Bag Limits
There are bag limits for some fish species in New York. This means that you can only keep a certain number of fish of a particular species per day. For example, the bag limit for trout in New York is five per day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you plan to go fishing in New York state waters, you will need a DEC fishing license. The DEC issues various types of fishing licenses depending on the type of fishing you plan to do and how long you want the license to be valid. You can get a DEC fishing license online, by phone, or in person at any DEC license-issuing agent. Additionally, you must follow the fishing regulations set by the DEC to ensure sustainable fishing for future generations.
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